As your business grows, it is easy to get distracted. You believe you have to do it all and end up overwhelmed with things like websites, design, social media... While these things are important at times, they can distract you from actually growing your business. If you are listening to all the experts and trying different tactics to get your business to grow, it can be the cause of intense pressure, especially because of the belief that you must get it right.

In order to grow the business, you may actually need to take a step back and get back to basics. Refocus your attention on the foundation aspects of your business in order to maintain momentum.

Your Numbers

It always comes back to your numbers, your financials and your budget. Checking your budget and financials regularly helps keep your business moving in the right direction. Never be afraid to talk about money with your team as they can help you stay on track.

Knowing what works in terms of profit and being able to identify areas of improvement in your financials are vital to support a growing business. The only way to know this is to look. Get comfortable with your numbers and know that you are on the right path.

Inspiration

Look to your competitors, do some market research, look into getting some inspiration from those around you. It can be incredibly motivating to find that you can do something your competitors can’t. Look at what other industries do that yours doesn’t, find out why others are not doing it. Is it just because no-one does it? What can you do differently?

Customers

Your customers are a great source of ideas. Many companies do not ask, or don’t listen to what their customers really want. Even complaints can signal areas that need improvement. Listen to what your customers are saying. The questions that your customers ask you can give you great insight into what could work well in future.

Then there are referrals. If you are constantly being referred as the go to for a particular product or service, then make sure you are using that to your advantage.

Your Team

As a business owner, it can be difficult to let go, however, you have a team for a reason. You should already have the right people in place. This already gives you some key ingredients to your overall business success. If you are willing to listen to these people, you will find that they have a special insight to your business.

They are within the business, however, not overly consumed as most business owners can be. They are already that one step back from the business and can provide real feedback about your processes and operations.

Look Outside

A good advisor, mentor or coach can give you ideas you may not have thought of before. They have a true outside perspective and can add tremendous value to your business. Find someone who has walked the path you are on and can give you clarity and help your business move forward.

Basically, start to notice the good, even the not so good and see where you can improve. Try a few things, explore, have fun with innovation. Getting back to basics will steer you and your business straight towards your goals.